Israeli-Palestinian Conflict Latest News: Calls for Extension of 24-Hour Truce Amid Peace Talks in Cairo
It has been confirmed that Israeli and Palestinian negotiators have agreed to extend a temporary ceasefire in Gaza for 24 hours on Monday night, while talks in Cairo went on to secure a long-term deal to put an end to the six-week conflict.
The negotiations ended late on Monday night, with the Palestinian delegation saying that both sides are still some way from an agreement. They also hinted that the truce will not be extended again if things could not be resolved by Tuesday.
Negotiators spent Sunday and Monday conducting indirect conversations mediated by the Egyptian intelligence officers, but failed to reach agreement about a draft treaty proposed by Egyptian officials on Sunday.
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Leaks of the treaty has surfaced, and the outline agreement included the opening of crossings between Israel and Gaza, according to The Guardian. The import of construction materials under international supervision, and the expansion of the permitted fishing zone to 12 miles over a period of six months.
The website is reporting that the demand for a seaport was agreed in principle. There was no mention of a Palestinian demand to rebuild and reopen an international airport in Gaza.
A Palestinian demand for the release of dozens of Hamas members arrested by Israel over the past few months has likewise been deferred.
On the other hand, Israel wants the disarmament of Hamas and other militant groups in Gaza, as well as the return of the remains of the two soldiers killed in fighting which Hamas is thought to be holding.
"Until now there is no progress," Chief Palestinian negotiator Azzam al-Ahmad said in a statement.
"There are hidden voices who are trying to put obstacles in our way. We have agreed on an extension for another day — just one day. Whether we agree or not, just one day."
